Career Change at 50: A Practical Guide to Making it Work
Published 11 Jun 2020
Is a Career in Nutrition Right for You?
Candlefox 
From public health to sports nutrition, food science to private practice, health professionals in nutrition can work in many different places, with a variety of responsibilities. But how do you know if working as a nutritionist is the right career path for you?
Nutrition is now regarded as one of the most important aspects of maintaining good health and wellness. Working in nutrition involves expert knowledge on the science of food, and assisting people in reaching positive health outcomes and managing diet-related issues.
Talking about food and healthy eating habits all day, helping people live their best life – sounds pretty great, right? But, before you dive straight into a nutrition course, you’re probably wondering what it is really like to work in nutrition, and how to know if it’s the right career path for you. To answer these questions we’ve spoken to Dr Liz Isenring, professor of Nutrition and Dietetics and founder of LINC Nutrition, who has been working as a nutritionist for over 20 years.
Dr Liz began her career in a hospital setting, thinking she would be there for life. “Little did I realise that as a dietitian and nutritionist I’d help people with cancer, run research trials, teach students, publish scientific papers and be invited around the world to speak on nutrition and wellness.”
“Nutrition and dietetics is a fascinating field”Dr Liz Isenring
What makes a good nutritionist?
The career opportunities for a nutritionist are vast and varied, and there are aspects which would be rich and rewarding for almost anyone. Do any of these traits sound like you?
Analytical and like to understand how things work
Driven to help people
Enjoy problem-solving
Interested in food and healthy eating
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Dr Liz suggests that, “If you love food, cooking, science and health and are motivated to help people, then nutrition and dietetics may be the profession for you.”
Nutritionist and Dietitian Careers in Australia: A Beginner’s Guide
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about the field of nutrition and dietetics and tells you the steps you need to take to become a nutritionist or dietitian.
What does a nutritionist actually do?
In Australia, the term ‘nutritionist’ refers to a broad range of nutrition services, including dietitians. Your responsibilities and where you work will depend on the type of qualification you get, so be careful if you’re deciding between free and paid nutrition courses.
Nutritionists may work in clinical settings, meeting one-on-one with clients to manage diet-related matters such as allergies, digestion problems, sports nutrition or weight management. Nutritionists also work in public health, policy-making, research and community health roles. Product development and food service industries also draw on the skills and knowledge of nutritionists.
In her career, Dr Liz has had professional experience in many of these settings.
“I’ve worked as a clinical dietitian in hospitals helping people impacted with cancer get through their treatment and reduce the risk of the cancer coming back.
“I’ve worked as a researcher investigating the effects of different diets and supplements on health outcomes. I’ve published guidelines and scientific papers that are accessed by over 40 countries and has led to improved care for hundreds of thousands of patients.
“As a Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics, I’ve taught the next generation of nutrition and dietetic professionals at universities.”
Nutritionist vs Dietitian: What’s the difference?
Clinical dietitians are differentiated from other nutrition professionals in Australia through membership to the Dietitians Association of Australia as Accredited Practising Dietitians. Clinical dietitians primarily work in hospital settings, helping people with health problems, including heart disease and diabetes, or those recovering from illness. Accredited practising dietitians are nutritionists, and may perform similar tasks to other nutrition and dietetics health professionals, but with an emphasis on evidence-based practice which often requires postgraduate education.
We asked Dr Liz, what are the pros of a career in nutrition and dietetics? Here’s what she had to say:
And what about the cons?
“The only con I can think of is because nutrition is so popular there are more graduates than advertised jobs. This is not necessarily a problem if you are passionate, determined and create your own opportunities,” Dr Liz says.
“With all the nutrition-related problems there is no shortage of need and hopefully positions will improve in the future.”
How do I become a nutritionist?
If you’re ready to get into the workforce as soon as possible, certificate IV and diploma programs can get you there in under a year! Alternatively, these courses can be used to build a foundation for further study.
Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetics Specialisation)
Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition & Dietetics)
Diploma Of Nutrition (Non-Clinical Advisor)
To become a clinical dietitian, or gain more in-depth expert knowledge of health science in the field of nutrition, higher education such as a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree might be the way to go.
For detailed info about your nutrition and dietetics career path, check out How to Become a Nutritionist: Your Ultimate Guide.
Dr Liz Isenring is a professor of Nutrition and Dietetics based in Brisbane and Gold Coast, and founder of LINC Nutrition.
Browse Nutrition Results
Top Result
Graduate Certificate in Management
The Graduate Certificate in Management is an online postgraduate qualification that is designed for newer and ambitious professionals, with entry possible through management experience alone and a study structure that easily accommodates full-time work...
Study Method Blended, Online, Virtual
Location Adelaide South Australia +4
Job Outcomes People Management +3
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) CHC33021
Get started in a career in aged care with our nationally recognised CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing). You’ll gain the skills, knowledge and professional attributes to care for and support people living in residential care facilit...
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Care Supervisor +1
Certificate III in Community Services (Perth Only) CHC32015
The Certificate III in Community Services is perfect for entry level community services workers who support individuals through the provision of person-centred services. Work may include day-to-day support of individuals in community settings or suppor...
Study Method In-class
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Community Support Worker +3
Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)
Naturopathy is a whole medical system combining theory (philosophy and principles) and practise that uses an array of natural therapies to support healing and maintain health. Naturopaths aim to treat the underlying causes of illness and disease. The c...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Naturopath
Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition)
Clinical nutritionists integrate traditional food wisdom and current scientific evidence to motivate individuals and communities to eat well and live healthier lives. The Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition) is supported by a strong underpin...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Clinical Nutritionist corpor... +1
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing OR Disability) (Perth Only) CHC33021
If you have a passion for helping those most in need, this qualification is one way you can utilise your knowledge for the benefit of others. Package the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing or Disability) (CHC33021) to save time and gain know...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Care Assistant +4
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care (Perth Only) CHC30121
If you love working with children and want to learn more about providing quality education and care in a range of environments, this course is for you. The Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) can provide you with an entry-l...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Early Childhood Educator +2
Certificate III in Community Services (Perth Only) CHC32015
Are you a natural when it comes to providing guidance to people? Would you like to kick start a career in Community Services? The Certificate III in Community Services (CHC32015) is the perfect entry-level qualification for prospective Community Servic...
Study Method Blended, In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +1
Job Outcomes Support Worker +1
Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) (SA Only) CHC33021
The Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) is designed to equip you with the practical skills and knowledge to support people living with disability in a variety of care settings. With a focus on person-centred support, you’ll learn how to...
in partnership with
Study Method Blended
Location South Australia
Job Outcomes Disability Support Worker +3
in partnership with
Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance (Perth Only) HLT33021
A Certificate III in Allied Health is your entrance into the world of health services! This course will teach you to support workers in a range of fields such as audiology to social work. You will use your qualification to gain an entry-level job in ei...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Physiotherapist Aide +4
Certificate III in School-Based Education Support (Perth Only) CHC30213
Are you interested in becoming a teacher’s aide? Work with teachers to create a comfortable and supportive environment for children’s learning. You will ensure lessons run smoothly while also developing the student’s literacy, numeracy and resear...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Home Tutor +4
Certificate III in Individual Support (Perth Only) CHC33021
This qualification is for those who want to work in the community or in a residential setting, following a customised plan to give person-centred assistance to individuals who may need it due to ageing, disability or other circumstances. Work involves...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Aged Care Worker +4
Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance (Perth Only) HLT33021
Are you interested in entering the health services industry? This nationally recognised qualification will allow you to enter into one of the most rewarding and enjoyable careers! When studying this course, you will gain knowledge in a range of fields...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Podiatrist Aide +3
Bachelor of Health Science (Acupuncture Therapies)
Acupuncture is a branch of Chinese Medicine that stimulates specific points on the body to regulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) to restore health and balance the functions of the body, mind and spirit. Acupuncture therapies combines Chinese medicine...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Acupuncture +4
Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine)
Chinese medicine is a whole medical system that seeks to balance the functions of the body, mind and spirit and restore health. It combines theory (philosophies and principles) and practices including acupuncture, moxibustion, medical Qi Gong, Chinese...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Acupuncturist +2
Diploma of Beauty Therapy (QLD Only) SHB50121
Gain real-world experience in Demi’s student clinics and launch your career in the beauty industry. VET Student Loans Available Nationally Recognised Accreditation Flexible part time or full time study options University doesn’t always mean...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Brisbane Queensland +4
Certificate III in Hairdressing Course (QLD Only) SHB30416
Gain real-world experience in Demi’s student clinics and launch your career in the beauty industry. Nationally Recognised Accreditation Skip the 4 year apprenticeship and fast-track your learning Learn hands-on with inustry experts The relationsh...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Brisbane Queensland +4
Job Outcomes Salon Owner
Diploma of Remedial Massage (WA Only) HLT52021
The HLT52021 Diploma of Remedial Massage is a highly sought-after qualification, providing you with the essential skills and knowledge for a fulfilling career as a Remedial Massage Therapist. With projected job growth of 20.6% over the next 5 years, th...
in partnership with
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Remedial Massage Therapist +3
in partnership with
Certificate III in Hospitality (Perth Only) SIT30622
The SIT30622 Certificate III in Hospitality is the perfect qualification for those looking for a career in hospitality including working as barista, bar attendant, waiter/waitress. Whether you imagine working in a restaurant, hotel, motel, funky bar, c...
Study Method In-class
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Barista +3
Diploma of Community Services (Mental Health) (WA Only) CHC52021
A career in Community Services is a very rewarding one, allowing you to enrich the lives of others and use your compassion and skills to help them build a better life for themselves. Community Services is one of the fastest growing sectors in Australia...
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Case Worker
Online courses also available
Loading...
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get expert advice, insights, and explainers on tricky topics — designed to help you navigate your learning journey with confidence.
By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of Use"
